The disease is the major cause of death in the UK, accounting for 22 per
cent of all deaths. The use of stents is often preferred to more
invasive treatments such as open-heart surgery.

The new product, which will launch later this year, aims to reduce
complications during the procedure, including restenosis - when the
artery rejects the insertion of the stent and narrows further.

As part of the promotional work for its launch, Ash will target
healthcare professionals and councils, and attempt to educate patients
on the nature of the product. The agency will also work alongside PA
shop Portcullis Research to boost awareness of the product within
government.

The agency will earn fees of £100,000 for the nine-month brief,
reporting to Moira Randles, business director for the firm's cardiology
unit.